Defence Minister Khawaja Asif Vows to Address Political Reservations on Operation Azm-e-Istehkam in Parliament
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stated that reservations regarding Operation Azm-e-Istehkam will be thoroughly addressed and discussed within the parliament. In an interview with a US media outlet, Asif emphasized that Pakistan will not seek US support for the newly launched operation aimed at eradicating militancy within the country.
Asif clarified that the decision to initiate Operation Azm-e-Istehkam was not made hastily but was a response to a significant increase in terrorist incidents across Pakistan. The Central Apex Committee on the National Action Plan (NAP) approved the operation last Saturday, marking a reinvigorated national counter-terrorism effort.
However, the operation has faced opposition from several political parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), who have demanded that the parliament be taken into confidence. Asif acknowledged this criticism, attributing it to political maneuvering. He asserted that some parties are opposing the military operation for political point scoring rather than genuine concerns.
“Political parties’ reservations on Azm-e-Istehkam will be addressed, and the operation will be discussed in parliament,” Asif affirmed. He added that opposition parties would be briefed on the details of the operation to ensure transparency and consensus. The defence minister suggested that an All Parties Conference (APC) could be convened to build a consensus on the operation.
Asif highlighted the intrinsic link between terrorism and the country’s economic condition, arguing that economic stability cannot be achieved without eliminating terrorism. “How can foreign investment come in if terrorism is not eradicated?” he asked rhetorically. He noted that China, a key economic partner, has expressed concerns about Pakistan’s security situation, emphasizing that an improved security environment would make Pakistan a priority for Chinese investment.
Responding to concerns about potential adverse impacts of the military operation, Asif assured that the scope of Azm-e-Istehkam would be different from past operations and would not result in large-scale displacement of local populations. “Azm-e-Istehkam will not lead to the displacement of local people,” he claimed, aiming to allay fears of a humanitarian crisis.
Asif also addressed the issue of cross-border terrorism, stating that banned outfits operating from Afghan soil pose a significant threat to Pakistan’s security. “Exporting terrorism from Afghan soil to our territory is a clear violation of international law. A party is violating international law and not fulfilling its obligations as a neighbor,” he asserted. He noted that while some elements of the banned outfits are operating within Pakistan, their primary base of operations is across the border.
The defence minister underscored the economic motivations behind the operation, pointing out that Pakistan’s current economic hardships necessitate decisive action against terrorism. He explained that improved security would not only attract foreign investment but also pave the way for economic independence, especially in light of China’s interest in a stable and prosperous Pakistan.
In the interview, Asif reiterated that the government is committed to addressing all political reservations regarding the operation and ensuring that it proceeds with broad-based support. He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among political parties to tackle the menace of terrorism effectively. “The operation is being opposed on political grounds, with some parties prioritizing their interests over the country,” he remarked.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif’s statements reflect the government’s determination to press forward with Operation Azm-e-Istehkam despite political opposition. By committing to parliamentary discussions and potentially an All Parties Conference, the government aims to build a unified front against terrorism. Asif’s comments highlight the intertwined nature of security and economic stability, underscoring the need for comprehensive and sustained counter-terrorism efforts to secure Pakistan’s future.
